In recent years we have seen a massive increase in the number of high-tech tools available to golfers. You can now choose from rangefinders, GPS systems such as SkyCaddie, launch monitors and swing analyzers, With this new technology comes some confusion as to when one can take advantage of these devices. A couple of days ago I received this question:
RULES OF GOLF QUESTION:
“Sorry to trouble you on this one – but do the Official Golf Rules allow the use of GPS yardage devices in competitions? Can you give me the appropriate rules that apply or include the question and answer in one of your really excellent Rules emails?”
RULES OF GOLF ANSWER:
“The answer to this question can be found in Rule 14-3b, part of which states “….the player must not use any artificial device or unusual equipment, …….. for the purpose of gauging or measuring distance or conditions that might affect his play.”
However, one of the changes to the Rules of Golf that became effective on January 1st is in a Note to this Rule:”The Committee may make a Local Rule allowing players to use devices that measure or gauge distance only.”
My guess is that the USGA and R&A have allowed Committees to introduce this Local Rule to help speed up play in ‘resort’ type courses. It is certainly not going to be allowed for any pro tournaments and in Ireland, where I play, it is unlikely to be adopted by member clubs, but might be introduced into some commercial ‘pay as you play’ courses.”
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Hi Glen,
You win. Rule 22-2 Ball Interfering With Play.
“Except when a ball is in motion, if a player considers that another ball might interfere with his play, he may have it lifted.
A ball lifted under this Rule must be replaced (see Rule 20-3). The ball must not be cleaned, unless it lies on the putting green (see Rule 21).
In stroke play, a player required to lift his ball may play first rather than lift the ball.”
Two ball are located off the putting green one behind the other in such close proximity to each other that the their closeness hinders the line of the golfer who is furthur from the pin whose turn it is to play.
My question is can he ask the player of the other ball to mark it and of course in doing so must pick the ball up with two fingers being careful not to clean it. I have a five dollar bet on this one.
Can you confirm the correct answer and procedure.
Thanks Glen